At 8400 Feet - 'Live Where the Gods Fly'

About Paul Fleischauer

The decision to establish roots in Durango was a very personal choice for our family. In 1992, our youngest daughter was granted a wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation and our family of six flew to Disney World for a week of non-stop stimulation. When we returned to California, we were determined to fulfill another wish of hers - to find a place in the mountains with big trees and wild animals that we could all enjoy as a family. After considering Ashland in Oregon, Flagstaff in Arizona, and Lake Tahoe in California, we were referred to Durango by a friend. The locals were so warm and without pretense that we immediately felt comfortable in the setting. There was so much to do, so many places to see, that we were sure that we had found what we were looking for. It's been thirty years now since we were fortunate enough to find Pine Point. Thankfully, everyone in the family is healthy and now we experience the area with our grandchildren as well. Sharing our home with other families has always been part of the plan.

Why Paul Fleischauer chose La Plata County

Living on the West Coast for the past forty years, our family has always enjoyed a true mountain experience away from the beaten path yet appreciates the amenities provided by city culture. The Needles range of the San Juan Mountains provides such an experience as does the city of Durango with its fine restaurants and diverse cultural opportunities even though it has a population of just 17,000. When we first purchased this home it was a 600 sq ft summer cabin without a well, heat, or decks to take advantage of the amazing views. We have doubled the size of the house anchored by a twenty five foot south-facing wall of glass to make living indoors seem like living outdoors. The challenge of continually upgrading the living experience at Pine Point with the input of guests and friends has always been and continues to be rewarding. Many of our guests come back or refer their friends. We are confident that you will feel the same way.

What makes this House unique

The setting is not only stunning, but a perfect distance (17 miles) and a great drive south to town, and in the other direction yet another memorable drive (25 miles) north to Silverton, Ouray, Telluride, and the original 'Million Dollar Highway.' With two lakes within walking distance, an abundance of trails in any direction, and the immediate glacial views of the Hermosa Cliffs, it is no wonder that the locals refer to this area as the Gold Coast of Durango. But perhaps the most unique aspect of our home is the downstairs apartment. As the parents of four children, we designed this space to be a sanctuary away from everyday family life complete with a half kitchen, shower, and 270 degrees of glass to take advantage of the views and peacefulness. An intercom and outside stairway connects the two living spaces. The arrangement has worked incredibly well for everyone as our children are able to enjoy their own space as well. * note - sometimes, families decide that the teenagers use the apartment which seems to suit everyone just fine. Parents then use the enclosed master bedroom with views in the upstairs loft.